Idaho man pleads guilty to embezzling $1.7 million

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (AP) — A southeastern Idaho man has pleaded guilty to two counts of grand theft by embezzlement as part of a plea deal that requires repaying $1.7 million.

The Idaho State Journal reports that Russell Leonardson of Idaho Falls made the plea Wednesday in 7th District Court. Authorities say Leonardson embezzled the money from potato shipping company Idaho Select Inc. and a subsidiary, Select Express.

Bingham County Prosecuting Attorney Cleve Colson says 70 counts of forgery have been dismissed as part of the deal. Leonardson faces up to 14 years in prison on each of the embezzlement counts. Sentencing is set for Feb. 18.